John's Story
Meet John.
For over 20 years, he’s been part of the REDI community - living, working and learning with the support of his “REDI workers.”
When John graduated from high school, he and his father looked for ways to help him continue his success. They found REDI and were plugged into what is now called REDIworks.
REDIworks supports individuals to gain independence by connecting them with employers and helping them develop the skills they need to succeed. John came to REDI ready to work, but he wasn’t sure at first what kind of career suited him best. His REDIworks team provided him with opportunities so he could explore his options. He tried a few short term positions and worked as a dishwasher in a couple restaurants around town. But when REDI connected him with the Medicine Hat News and he was offered a position distributing flyers, John knew he’d found the right fit.
“My flyer job is pretty much the longest lasting job I’ve ever had,” he says. “I’ve been doing it for at least 10 years. With flyers, you can go at your own pace. In the beginning staff was with me, but now I can do it by myself.”
While exploring his career options, John also searched for a place where he could belong. He found that place when staff suggested he join The Action Group (TAG). TAG is a group of self-advocates who meet at REDI once a month to share their experiences and support each other. They actively champion the rights of people with disabilities in Medicine Hat in many ways, like organizing events like the Citizen’s Walk and contacting government representatives to speak up for their community.
When John joined TAG, he started as a participant. Allies (REDI staff who support the group) and other self-advocates took notice of his commitment to the group and encouraged him to join its leadership committee. He agreed and has loved being more involved. He currently serves as the group’s secretary, recording meeting minutes whenever the group gets together. John also just completed a two year term as Director of the South Region Self-Advocacy Network (SRSAN), which connects TAG to similar groups across southern Alberta. “I like being busy,” he says.
“Before I was in TAG I didn’t know other clients or peers at REDI a whole lot,” he says, but he feels more connected now. “I would say the people at TAG are my closest friends.”
John says he’s a happier person, being part of TAG and getting support from REDI. He’s been able to increase his independence at work, at home, and in the community. When asked how that makes him feel, John gives a clear answer. “Pretty good,” he says with a smile.